9.03.2009

A Peek Beneath

Sometimes moths require a second glance to truly appreciate their beauty or even understand the names they've been given. This particular moth is called a Pink-spotted Hawk Moth. What? Why? I don't see any pink spots, do you? Those lepidopterists are a crazy bunch...

Hmm, could it be that this moth hides it true nature? Is there more here than is immediately apparent?Perhaps, if we gently push aside the forewing...

Aha! Pink spots...maybe those lep folks aren't so peculiar afterall.

Pink-spotted Hawk Moth (Agrius cingulata), a sphinx moth that feeds on jimsonweed, pawpaw, and sweet potato as a caterpillar.